Transporting bike on trailer advice...

[matt-devon]

Hi
I am taking my bike to the Alps this summer with my campervan as part of a 6 week trip. I won't be using the bike everyday.....bike is a bmw r1200r. Not sure the bike makes much difference. Trailer is a proper 1 bike motorbike trailer.

I just have a few questions.

1- any advice on best way to strap it down? I have strapped the bike in a van a few times and have always used fork yoke and part of rear frame.
I wondered about purchasing the r&g handlebar strap to avoid any potential fork/mudguard damage and it looks easy to use if I'm potentially taking the bike on and off the trailer fairly frequently.
https://www.rg-racing.com/browsetype/General_Acces...

2 - I have seen a rear wheel strap from sealey. Again, worth using or just go for frame sections? https://www.sealey.co.uk/product/5637203387/motorc...

3 - obviously the suspension will be compressed when on the trailer. I thought I would probably slacken the straps when parked on campsites to allow the suspension to settle. Is this a good idea?

Happy to purchase any specific straps etc... that might make my life easier, protect bike, keep it more secure etc!

[paddy1970]

The R&G handlebar strap is a solid option, especially if you are going to be loading and unloading regularly. It spreads the load nicely across both bars and avoids putting stress on the fork seals or mudguard, which can happen if you crank down on the yokes too hard. It is also quick and easy, so worth considering for sure.

That Sealey rear wheel strap is decent, but it is more of a backup than a primary hold. It is handy for stopping the rear wheel from shifting sideways if the trailer hits a pothole, but you would still want to rely on straps to the frame/subframe for the main restraint. Not essential, but if you like a belt and braces approach, it is no bad thing.

Slacking the straps when you are parked up for a day or two is definitely a good habit. No need to fully release them, just back them off enough to let the suspension settle. It helps avoid unnecessary wear on the fork seals and suspension components, especially if you are doing this over several weeks.

If you want to make life even easier, a good wheel chock up front (if your trailer does not already have one) is worth its weight in gold. Combined with decent soft loop straps, you will have a setup that is secure but easy to manage when you are on and off regularly.

[black-k1]

Handlebar straps are worth every penny!

[KTMsm]

I regularly strap bikes down, never had an issue using normal cheap ratchet straps

I prefer the non hook type if the trailer has suitable points as it always worries me the hooks might come off over bumps

You could buy the soft loop tie downs and loop them around the bars / wheels if you prefer - it does make it a bit simpler

I've never had an issue pulling bikes down on their suspension, nor do I understand why everyone thinks it's an issue - I have to, to get my bike into my van - 5 years of multiple trips - no issues yet

4 straps at the 4 corners of the trailer

Frequently I can't get to handlebars so I'll use the forks above the triple clamps. Back anywhere solid on the frame

I'd be most concerned about how you're locking the bike to the trailer and the trailer to the car

[KTMsm]

This type - this was just the first hit that showed how you use them - I'm sure I paid significantly less

[matt-devon]

Super helpful and speedy advice everyone, thank you!
Bike will have a pair of hefty chains on it and will generally either be on a campsite or me riding it so not too worried.

I will have to start another thread for any essential roads or places to visit.....

[KTMsm]

On one of my motorcycle Facebook groups recently, someone had their trailer (and bike) stolen at the services in less than 15 minutes

[OutInTheShed]

Some trailers secure the front wheel much better than others.
If the front wheel is well held, you are halfway to keeping the bike upright.

Straps and ropes can do a lot of damage over time.
Some straps yield over time losing tension.

It's all easier with a good helper.
Holding the bike upright while you get the straps on/off can be a problem.

Unloading the bike can be scary, I've seen people come very close to dropping bikes backing them off the trailer.

I'm not a fan of 8 inch trailer wheels and tyres, especially for prolonged dual carriageway speeds so to speak.

Cover the number plate if you don't want to be ANPR'd.

[srob]

KTMsm said:

I regularly strap bikes down, never had an issue using normal cheap ratchet straps

I prefer the non hook type if the trailer has suitable points as it always worries me the hooks might come off over bumps

You could buy the soft loop tie downs and loop them around the bars / wheels if you prefer - it does make it a bit simpler

I've never had an issue pulling bikes down on their suspension, nor do I understand why everyone thinks it's an issue - I have to, to get my bike into my van - 5 years of multiple trips - no issues yet

4 straps at the 4 corners of the trailer

Frequently I can't get to handlebars so I'll use the forks above the triple clamps. Back anywhere solid on the frame

I'd be most concerned about how you're locking the bike to the trailer and the trailer to the car

This. We regularly strap bikes down in vans and trailers and just have a selection of cheap to expensive ratchet straps. The cheap ones work fine but they don't always last very long!

Be mindful of just how much force you can put through them though. I've seen people twist forks through over exuberence with a heavy duty ratchet strap!

Try and make sure you're not pulling the bike in one direction; unless it's forwards and you have a very positive stop which you can pull the bike against.

Make sure where you tie the bike isn't somewhere that the strap can slip from, it's surprising how much vibration and jolts can make a strap slip and then end up loose. Try and tie somewhere that there's something to stop the strap slipping down a tube/face etc.

Secure the bike as high as is practical, and think triangles!

[moanthebairns]

A cut up bath matt or towel is essential when securing the straps to the bike so you don't damage the frame.

[s p a c e m a n]

You've all missed the essential magic words.

'Thats not going anywhere'

[-Cappo-]

Depending on the trailer tie-down points, DON'T use a strap with a hook on a metal tie down loop. If for any reason the strap loses a bit of tension on the journey (can happen if they get wet, for example) then the strap loosens and the hook can fall out of the tie-down loop. Use straps with a safety catch on the hook, or (as I now do) connect the strap to the trailer using carabiners.

Ask me how I know, etc etc.....

[matt-devon]

Great tips, thank you. Will definitely get straps that's aren't a hook.
So it's important to have tight straps, but not too tight, and slacken regularly, but check regularly to ensure they haven't gone slack.....! 😁

Am I missed something with the ANPR comment? Not something I had even considered. Other than an automatic toll what would be the problem with activating a camera? Get caught speeding twice?

[ouninpohja]

-Cappo- said:

Depending on the trailer tie-down points, DON'T use a strap with a hook on a metal tie down loop. If for any reason the strap loses a bit of tension on the journey (can happen if they get wet, for example) then the strap loosens and the hook can fall out of the tie-down loop. Use straps with a safety catch on the hook, or (as I now do) connect the strap to the trailer using carabiners.

Ask me how I know, etc etc.....

This one!! Definitely use snap hook ratchet straps.

[black-k1]

ouninpohja said:

-Cappo- said:

Depending on the trailer tie-down points, DON'T use a strap with a hook on a metal tie down loop. If for any reason the strap loses a bit of tension on the journey (can happen if they get wet, for example) then the strap loosens and the hook can fall out of the tie-down loop. Use straps with a safety catch on the hook, or (as I now do) connect the strap to the trailer using carabiners.

Ask me how I know, etc etc.....

This one!! Definitely use snap hook ratchet straps.

I find cam buckle straps that form a loop to be the best. They don't come undone through movement/settling, it's difficult to unintentionally over-tighten them and they're easier to pack when not in use.